United Arab Emirates

United Arab Emirates Travel Guide

Tucked into a corner of the traditional, conservative Middle
East lies the unique, progressive United Arab Emirates. Like most
countries on the peninsula, the UAE made its wealth from oil and
gas. Unlike its more traditional neighbours, it then expanded into
tourism. Today it is a modern, trend-setting conglomeration of
high-rise cities with state-of-the-art tourist infrastructure,
magnificent beaches and a paradise of duty free shopping.

The majority of people in the UAE are expatriates and most of
them are there to live and work in Dubai. The city is a playground
of palm-shaped islands, colossal skyscrapers, malls the size of
small towns, seven star hotels, supercars, michelin star
restaurants and luxury beach resorts. To the west of Dubai lies Abu
Dhabi, the capital, where visitors can enjoy large gardens and
parks, green boulevards, sophisticated high-rise buildings, modern
communication services and transport, international luxury hotels,
rich shopping malls and cultural centres.

Alongside the two famous emirates sits Sharjah, the world
capital of Islamic Culture. This conservative emirate plays host to
the best museums and art galleries in the country. Surrounded by
mountains and desert oases, Ras Al Khaimah is fast becoming a
destination for adventurous travelers. Visitors can also relax on
the beaches in Ajman, visit the fort of Fujairah at the foothills
of the Hajar Mountains, or take a break from the glitz and glammer
in low-key Umm Al Quwain.

The modern cities on the Persian Gulf give way to a desert
interior, home to magnificent dunes on the edge of the Empty
Quarter, stunning desert oases such as the Liwa Oasis, and rugged
archaeological sites in the Hajar Mountains. The UAE presents an
astonishing mix of outlandish luxury and remote adventure, which
will fascinate visitors to this unique land.